Power Liftgate Struts for RAV4: What to Know Before You Buy
If your 2013-2018 Toyota RAV4's power tailgate has started sagging, struggling to open, or making grinding noises, the gas struts are likely worn out. This L&R pair of replacement lift supports (part numbers 6891009010 and 6892009010) is designed specifically for RAV4 models with the electric trunk actuator, not the manual liftgate. Getting the right part for your trim level is the first critical step.
Key Considerations Before Buying
- Confirm your RAV4 has a power liftgate before ordering. These struts are engineered for the electric trunk actuator system found on higher trim levels; installing them on a manual liftgate won't restore proper function and may cause fitment issues.
- Match the OEM part numbers exactly. The 6891009010 (right) and 6892009010 (left) numbers correspond to specific model years and trims, so cross-reference your VIN or existing strut markings to avoid a return.
- Check the included hardware and mounting points. Some struts ship with new ball studs or brackets, while others reuse original hardware; if yours are corroded, you may need to source replacements separately.
What Our Analysts Recommend
Quality lift supports for power tailgates should specify the exact OEM part numbers they replace, list the vehicle trim compatibility (not just model year), and include the correct pressure rating for the electric actuator system. Look for struts that come as a matched left-and-right pair, since mismatched pressure can cause uneven opening or strain on the liftgate motor. Reviews mentioning smooth, quiet operation and proper holding power are good indicators of a well-made replacement.
Lift Supports Market Context
Market Overview
The lift support aftermarket is crowded with low-cost imports that often fail within a year, especially for power liftgate applications where the strut must work in sync with an electric motor. For the 2013-2018 RAV4, OEM struts are still available but can be pricey, so many owners turn to aftermarket pairs that claim OEM-equivalent fit and pressure. The challenge is finding a set that truly matches the original specifications rather than a one-size-fits-all approximation.
Common Issues
The most frequent complaint with aftermarket lift supports is premature failure—struts that lose pressure within months, causing the tailgate to droop or the power motor to overwork and eventually burn out. Another issue is incorrect pressure ratings: struts that are too weak won't hold the gate open, while overly strong ones can slam it shut or damage the actuator. Fitment problems, like ball studs that don't seat properly or brackets that bind, are also common when the part isn't vehicle-specific.
Quality Indicators
A quality lift support will list the exact OEM part numbers it replaces, specify the vehicle trim and power liftgate compatibility, and include a warranty of at least one year. Look for struts made with hardened steel rods and multi-lip seals, which resist oil leakage and corrosion. Reviews that mention proper fit, smooth operation, and holding power after several months of use are more telling than initial impressions alone.
Review Authenticity Insights
Grade A Interpretation
An authenticity grade of A with an estimated 8% fake reviews is a strong result for an automotive part listing. It means the vast majority of the 10 reviews are likely from real customers who actually installed these struts on their RAV4 or similar Toyota models. The adjusted rating of 4.80/5, down slightly from the perfect 5.00, suggests the analysis filtered out a small number of suspicious reviews, leaving a still-excellent score.
Trust Recommendation
You can trust this listing's reviews more than most, but with only 10 reviews, the sample size is small. Read the full reviews to see if they mention specific installation details, vehicle models, and long-term performance. If you see multiple reviews from verified purchasers describing the same positive experience, that's a good sign. Still, consider that a product with hundreds of reviews may offer more reliable patterns.
Tips for Reading Reviews
For lift supports, focus on reviews that mention how long the struts have been installed and whether they still hold the tailgate open after months of use. Look for comments about fitment on specific RAV4 trims (e.g., Limited, XLE) and whether the power liftgate functioned correctly afterward. Ignore reviews that simply say 'works great' without context, and be wary of any that sound like they were written by the seller.
Expert Perspective
This pair of power liftgate struts for the 2013-2018 Toyota RAV4 appears to be a solid aftermarket option, backed by a high authenticity grade and positive customer feedback. The fact that reviewers mention specific vehicle models and installation details suggests these struts fit and function as intended. However, the small number of reviews means we can't yet gauge long-term durability across a wide user base. For a critical component like a power liftgate, that's a consideration.
Purchase Considerations
Before buying, verify that your RAV4 has the power liftgate option and that your existing struts match the part numbers listed. Check the return policy in case of fitment issues. Also, consider whether you're comfortable installing them yourself; while it's a straightforward job for many DIYers, the power liftgate system can be finicky, and improper installation could damage the actuator. If you're unsure, factor in the cost of professional installation.
Comparing Alternatives
Compare these struts with other aftermarket pairs and OEM replacements to ensure you're getting the best value for your specific needs. Look for similar listings that offer a longer warranty or more reviews to assess long-term reliability.
